EHP, a leading technology company based in Wallonia, has recently achieved a significant milestone in its expansion journey by inaugurating a new facility in Nivelles.
This move marks a pivotal moment for the company, which has emerged as a global leader in heat pipes and thermal control systems for the space industry following its majority acquisition by Airbus Defence & Space in 2017. Established twenty years ago as a spin-off from Sabca and ULB, EHP has quickly solidified its position as a key player in the Belgian space sector.
Renowned for its innovative products, particularly heat pipes crucial for spacecraft thermal regulation, the company has garnered international acclaim.
With a hefty investment of €15 million, EHP has erected a state-of-the-art 10,000 square-meter plant in Nivelles. This expansion not only doubles the company's production capacity but also modernizes its infrastructure, featuring advanced testing facilities and a cutting-edge clean room. The partnership with inBW underscores a long-term commitment to growth and innovation. Heat pipes, integral to cooling power electronics in spacecraft, are witnessing increasing demand from entities like the European Space Agency (ESA) and satellite operators.
EHP's enhanced production capabilities, estimated at 5,000 units annually with potential for further expansion, position it favorably in both European and transatlantic markets.
In Europe, EHP faces competition primarily from Spain, albeit with limited capacity and longer lead times. In the US, ATK Orbital emerges as a notable rival. However, EHP's bolstered production capacity and diversified product portfolio, including larger thermal systems and deployable radiators, strengthen its competitive edge.
With nearly 100 employees and a turnover of €13 million, EHP demonstrates robust growth prospects, fueled by its commitment to innovation and market expansion.
Its success underscores Wallonia's prowess in the global technology landscape and reaffirms the region's standing as a conducive hub for the space industry.